Description
These Pineapple Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are a delightful appetizer featuring sliced kielbasa sausage combined with sweet pineapple chunks and a tangy molasses-brown sugar glaze. Cooked to perfection using either an air fryer or oven, they offer a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or a tasty snack, these bites are easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage
- 2 rings (13.9 ounces each) kielbasa sausage
Fruit
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, with ½ cup juice reserved and the rest drained
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Slice the Kielbasa: Place the kielbasa between two chopsticks or skewers to avoid cutting all the way through. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch slices, stopping about two-thirds of the way down to create a hasselback effect.
- Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: Slice the kielbasa crosswise into 1-inch pieces to create approximately 20 bite-sized pieces per ring, totaling 40 bites.
- Combine Kielbasa and Pineapple: In a large bowl, mix the kielbasa bites with the drained pineapple chunks.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the reserved ½ cup pineapple juice, molasses, and light brown sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Toss with Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the kielbasa and pineapple mixture and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the kielbasa bites and pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Air Fry Cooking: Air fry for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning, until the kielbasa is nicely browned and heated through.
- Oven Method: Alternatively, preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bake: Arrange the kielbasa bites and pineapple evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until browned and hot throughout.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the cooked bites from the air fryer or oven, place them on a serving platter, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Using chopsticks or skewers while slicing helps keep the kielbasa pieces connected and prevents cutting all the way through.
- You can choose either air frying or baking depending on your equipment and time preference.
- Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- The dish can be served as a hearty appetizer or snack at parties and gatherings.
